M&S will pre-pay for all garments and committed fabric

Many apparel factories primarily in developing countries in Asia have reported cancellation of orders from global brands / retailers, in view of the current COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. However, few companies have also assured their garment suppliers of taking shipment of goods that have already been manufactured.

In response to Fibre2Fashion's email to M&S asking how the company intends to support its suppliers during the unprecedented crisis, an M&S spokesperson said, “We’re very proud to have strong long-term relationships with our clothing suppliers and we’re doing all we can for our partners in this unprecedented time."

“We have paid for all shipped products and for the vast majority of orders we will pre-pay for all garments and committed fabric – which is the most expensive cost for a supplier, and across all our partners we will aim to ensure that no fabric goes to waste and is used at a later date. Most of our orders will be paid through the vendor finance facility we have available," the spokesperson added.

“We fully support the efforts of the Ethical Trading Initiative and our partner the International Labour Organization who are facilitating the coordination and distribution of emergency relief funds, supporting safe working where manufacturing continues and co-ordinating an industry-wide response. Additionally, we’ll continue to support our community projects in the supply chain including those focused on employability, health and digital wages,” the email communication said.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RKS)